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It’s time once again to plan for a fun filled Fourth of July! In 2017, this popular holiday lands on a Tuesday, but it should still attract thousands of people to the waterfront area.

You can enjoy fireworks and activities all day at Pier 39 and a ferry ride around the bay.

Every year, San Francisco holds a large fireworks display over the bay. There are two sets of fireworks, synced, to allow you to get a glimpse from all around the area.

One set at the end of the Municipal Pier. The other one is on barges in front of Pier 39.

Large parts of the SF waterfront are closed to cars due to crowds for the fireworks display.

We recommend heading down early and using public transit to get to and from this area of town for the fireworks display.

The fireworks display starts shortly before 9:30pm (or once it’s dark enough to start) and lasts around 30 minutes.

These are some of the best places to see the show.

Aquatic Park: Some of the spots in Aquatic Park are saved for VIPs. However, there is a large park here where you can lay out your blankets, pull out your picnic, enjoy some music, and wait patiently for the show. Get here no later than mid-afternoon to grab a good spot. The thing I like about this option is that there is plenty of activity going on all day at Fisherman’s Wharf. If you are with a group, some of you can walk around, grab food, and enjoy other festivities as you wait for the fireworks.

Pier 39 Decks: The decks on Pier 39 are packed with spectators. However, they can always squeeze in one more person. There is no room to sit on the deck, but it’s a great spot to see the show. If you get there early enough, I recommend heading to the second floor to see the show.

Pier 39 Restaurants: If you call in early, you might be lucky enough to get a spot at one of the Pier 39 restaurants with a view of the fireworks.

Cannery: You will find some options in the Cannery that allow you to see the show. Head to the courtyard here if other places are a bit too crowded.

Coit Tower: You will get great views of the show from the top of the hill in the Coit Tower parking lot. I recommend walking up here as parking is sparse and it might be tough to catch the bus.

Hills Near the Golden Gate Bridge: Just up the hill from Crissy Field and Fort Point, you will find some great places to watch the fireworks. Find a spot with unobstructed views of the bay and you are set. No matter where you go in this area, you will find a lot of people, so you can always ask for some advice if a certain area is too full already.

Golden Gate Bridge: You can watch the fireworks from the Golden Gate Bridge. However, during the summer, keep in mind the bridge walkways close at 9pm. Therefore, we do not recommend this location to watch the show.

Sausalito: You can also get a good view of the fireworks from Sausalito. This is a good option for those coming from or staying in the North Bay. It’s also VERY crowded here, but you will not have to fight the Golden Gate Bridge traffic to get home.

In addition to San Francisco, there are a number of other cities planning large fireworks displays and festivals in the Bay Area. Click these links to find out more: